Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard was lucky to escape punishment and put his side into further trouble against Chelsea after getting away with a clear handball outside his penalty area.

The Toffees were shell-shocked at the beginning of this evening’s match at Goodison Park – which finished 6-3 to the Blues – as the visitors took a 35 second lead through Diego Costa, before Branislav Ivanovic – who appeared to be offside from Ramires’ pass – doubled Chelsea’s advantage just two minutes later.

Tim Howard raced out of his area (Picture: Sky Sports)

…And appeared to catch the ball before falling back into his box (Picture: Sky Sports)

However, one of the biggest talking points in the first half came when Howard came racing out to meet the ball and appeared to catch it outside of his area, before stepping back inside.